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DC 8520Neurological Conditions38 CFR § 4.124a, DC 8520

Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve

VA disability rating criteria for Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve under Diagnostic Code 8520. The VA assigns ratings of 10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% based on the severity and functional impact of your condition.

Rating Criteria

10%Disability Rating

Mild incomplete paralysis. Mild neuralgia, characterized by occasional sciatic symptoms (pain radiating down the leg), with minor sensory deficits.

Note: Sciatic nerve paralysis is rated on degree of paralysis and which leg is involved (major/dominant vs. minor). The ratings listed apply to the major (dominant) extremity. Minor extremity ratings are one level lower. "Neuralgia" means pain in the distribution of the nerve without actual motor paralysis.

20%Disability Rating

Moderate incomplete paralysis. Moderate neuralgia with more frequent or severe sciatic symptoms, loss of sensation in leg and foot, or diminished reflexes with some functional impairment of the lower extremity.

40%Disability Rating

Moderately severe incomplete paralysis. Considerable weakness in the muscles served by the sciatic nerve (hamstrings, lower leg and foot muscles), with significant sensory disturbances, instability, and functional limitation.

60%Disability Rating

Severe incomplete paralysis with marked muscular atrophy. Pronounced weakness and wasting of the leg and foot muscles, impaired plantar flexion and toe movements, foot drop, severe sensory deficits, and significantly impaired ambulation.

80%Disability Rating

Complete paralysis. The foot is dropped, there is no active movement possible of the muscles below the knee, flexion of the knee weakened, total sensory loss in the leg below the knee, and the limb is essentially useless for normal functioning.

Note: Complete sciatic paralysis results in a functionless leg below the knee. At 80%, the maximum rating for complete sciatic nerve paralysis in the major extremity, the veteran is typically unable to ambulate without assistive devices.

Secondary Conditions

5 known secondary conditions linked to Paralysis of the Sciatic Nerve

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